Watch Elusive Justice: The Search for Nazi War Criminals

Elusive Justice: The Search for Nazi War Criminals is a 2011 documentary film starring Candice Bergen, which explores the decades-long search for Nazi war criminals who have evaded justice. The film delves into the themes of genocide, persecution, and justice through the experiences of Nazi hunters who have dedicated their lives to catching perpetrators of war crimes.

The documentary showcases the enormity of the task of tracking down those responsible for some of the most horrific episodes of the 20th century. The film narrates accounts from various individuals who survived the Holocaust, some of whom provided crucial information that led to the capture of infamous SS officers. Elusive Justice includes interviews with government officials, lawyers specializing in human rights, and journalists who dedicated their time to uncovering the truth. These interviews provide insight into the methods and complexities of tracking down whom many thought to be ‘untouchable.’

The movie sheds light on the involvement of various governments, specifically during the Cold War era, in harboring or aiding Nazi war criminals in exchange for information or assistance. One example is of Klaus Barbie, a known SS officer who was sheltered by the CIA in exchange for information during the Cold War.

Elusive Justice also covers the extradition of war criminals to countries seeking justice. The documentary explores different cases that went to trial and those that resulted in convictions. The film discusses the challenges that come along with tracking down and prosecuting perpetrators of war crimes, including dealing with altered identities, false documents, and lack of cooperation from various governments.

Throughout the movie, the audience gains insight into the recent convictions of infamous war criminals, such as Iwan Demjanjuk, and the methods used in his capture. The film also presents cases that have yet to be solved, like the most-wanted man in the world, Klaus Barbie, who managed to evade justice for many years while living openly in Bolivia.

Aside from discussing the pursuit of war criminals, the film occasionally presents philosophical questions regarding the nature of justice itself. What does it mean to hold someone accountable for their actions? How do we weigh out the severity of the crime and the time that has elapsed since the act of violence took place?

Despite having a narrative structure, the documentary sometimes feels like it glosses over complex topics or extends beyond its scope, leaving the audience with more questions that it can answer. However, its powerful firsthand accounts and the essential information it presents make it a valuable introduction to the struggle for justice after World War II.

In conclusion, Elusive Justice: The Search for Nazi War Criminals is a thought-provoking documentary that takes viewers on a journey through the efforts of various individuals and organizations to track down those responsible for some of the most heinous crimes of the last century. It provides a glimpse into the complexity of this task, discussing the politics and ethics involved. It’s a highly informative and emotional watch that both educates and encourages reflective thinking.